1999 Toyota Solara vs. 1997 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1999 Toyota Solara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Toyota Solara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota Solara (190 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Toyota MR2. (173 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Solara should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Solara weights approximately 225 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Solara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Toyota Solara (290 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1999 Toyota Solara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Toyota Solara | 1997 Toyota MR2 | |
Make | Toyota | Toyota |
Model | Solara | MR2 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4190 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |